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N5 - Interference, Damage, or Overcrowding

The N5 notice is used when a tenant has substantially interfered with reasonable enjoyment, caused damage, or is overcrowding the unit.

When to Use N5​

Use an N5 for:

  • Interference - Unreasonable noise, harassment of neighbors or landlord
  • Damage - Willful or negligent damage to property
  • Overcrowding - Too many occupants for the unit
  • Illegal business - Running an illegal business from the unit

Notice Requirements​

First N5​

RequirementDetails
Notice Period20 days
Voiding Period7 days to correct the issue
Termination DateAt least 20 days from service

Second N5​

If tenant doesn't correct behavior within 6 months:

RequirementDetails
Notice Period14 days
No VoidingCannot be voided
Termination DateAt least 14 days from service

How to Generate an N5​

Step 1: Go to Notices​

  1. Click Notices in the sidebar
  2. Click Generate Notice
  3. Select the lease
  4. Click N5 - Interference/Damage

Step 2: Select Reason​

Choose one or more reasons:

  • Substantial interference with reasonable enjoyment
  • Damage to rental property
  • Damage to common areas
  • Overcrowding
  • Running illegal business

Step 3: Describe the Issue​

Provide detailed description:

  • What happened - Specific incidents
  • When - Dates and times
  • Impact - How it affected others
  • Evidence - Photos, complaints, police reports

Step 4: First or Second Notice​

Indicate whether this is:

  • First N5 - 20-day notice with voiding period
  • Second N5 - 14-day notice (requires prior N5 within 6 months)

Step 5: Set Termination Date​

System calculates minimum date. You can choose later if preferred.

Step 6: Generate​

Click Generate PDF to create the notice.

Voiding a First N5​

The tenant can void a first N5 by:

  1. Stopping the behavior within 7 days
  2. Repairing damage within 7 days
  3. Reducing occupants within 7 days

If voided:

  • Notice is cancelled
  • You cannot proceed to LTB
  • Clock resets for second N5

Documenting Issues​

For a strong case, document:

DocumentationExamples
Dates/TimesLog of incidents
WitnessesNeighbor statements
Photos/VideoEvidence of damage
ComplaintsWritten complaints received
Police ReportsIf applicable

Common N5 Scenarios​

Noise Complaints​

  • Multiple complaints from neighbors
  • Late night disturbances
  • Loud music/parties

Property Damage​

  • Holes in walls
  • Broken fixtures
  • Smoke damage (in non-smoking unit)

Unauthorized Occupants​

  • More people than lease allows
  • Long-term guests not on lease
  • Subletting without permission

Tips​

  1. Document everything - The more evidence, the better
  2. Give opportunity to correct - First N5 must have voiding period
  3. Be specific - Vague claims won't hold up at LTB
  4. Keep records - Save all communications

Next Steps​